The Ministry of Culture and Tourism is working to pave the way for Russian tourists to receive free emergency health services in an effort to maintain Russian interest in Turkey as a tourism destination.

The new regulations will allow Russian tourists who need immediate attention in cases such as traffic accidents or accidental poisoning to go to a hospital in Turkey for treatment at no cost.

After Germans, Russian tourists are the largest group of visitors who come to Turkey for their vacation. Every year, over 14 million Russians travel abroad for pleasure and Turkey is one of the primary destinations they choose. In 2012, close to 4 million Russians visited Turkey, up from 3,468,214 in 2011.

Officials from the ministry cited the high number of Russian patients who become ill in hot weather as the reason behind the move. They noted that while the health insurance of many European tourists provides for free treatment in Turkish hospitals, Russian tourists often do not have the same opportunity.

The second move to attract Russian tourists is a new hotline designated specially for Russian speakers. Russian visitors can dial 179 for general assistance while in Turkey.